key
Key can refer to metal device shaped in such a way that when it is inserted into the appropriate lock the lock's mechanism can be rotated, something crucial for explaining, or a kilogram of a narcotic drug. As a verb, key can mean to vandalize a car by scratching the sides with a key, regulate the musical pitch of, or identify as in botany or biology, for example.
Length
3
Scrabble
10
WWF
9
Starts
KE
Ends
KEY
Difficulty
Easy
Dictionary
What Does “KEY” Mean?
key has 20 documented senses across adjective, noun, verb.
Adjective
1 senseserving as an essential component
“a cardinal rule”
“the central cause of the problem”
“an example that was fundamental to the argument”
“computers are fundamental to modern industrial structure”
Synonyms
Noun
14 sensesmetal device shaped in such a way that when it is inserted into the appropriate lock the lock's mechanism can be rotated
something crucial for explaining
“the key to development is economic integration”
pitch of the voice
“he spoke in a low key”
any of 24 major or minor diatonic scales that provide the tonal framework for a piece of music
Synonyms
a kilogram of a narcotic drug
“they were carrying two keys of heroin”
a winged often one-seed indehiscent fruit as of the ash or elm or maple
Synonyms
Show 8 more noun definitions
a coral reef off the southern coast of Florida
Synonyms
(basketball) a space (including the foul line) in front of the basket at each end of a basketball court; usually painted a different color from the rest of the court
“he hit a jump shot from the top of the key”
“he dominates play in the paint”
Synonyms
a list of answers to a test
“some students had stolen the key to the final exam”
a list of words or phrases that explain symbols or abbreviations
a generic term for any device whose possession entitles the holder to a means of access
“a safe-deposit box usually requires two keys to open it”
mechanical device used to wind another device that is driven by a spring (as a clock)
Synonyms
a lever (as in a keyboard) that actuates a mechanism when depressed
Verb
5 sensesidentify as in botany or biology, for example
provide with a key
“We were keyed after the locks were changed in the building”
vandalize a car by scratching the sides with a key
“His new Mercedes was keyed last night in the parking lot”
regulate the musical pitch of
harmonize with or adjust to
“key one's actions to the voters' prevailing attitude”
Scrabble Score
10
Letters
3
Vowels
1
Consonants
2
Word Intelligence
Explore the word key with its definition, score, letter pattern, and useful word game details.
Definition
serving as an essential component
Length
3 letters
Starts With
K
Ends With
Y
Vowels
1
Consonants
2
Letters
K, E, Y
Use Case
Useful for Scrabble, Wordle, crosswords, anagrams, and other word games.
Letter Breakdown
Word Facts
Key letter, score, and pattern facts for key.
Word Strategy
Strategy notes for using key in Scrabble, Wordle-style games, crosswords, and anagram solving.
Scrabble Strategy
★★★★☆KEY has a Scrabble score of 10. It is useful for balancing a rack and building steady board position.
Wordle Strategy
★★☆☆☆KEY is not five letters, so it is not a standard Wordle answer, but its letter pattern can still help with word analysis.
Crossword Strategy
★★★★☆KEY can be useful in crossword solving because it has a clear starting letter, ending letter, and 3-letter structure.
Anagram Strategy
★★★★☆KEY uses unique letters, giving more flexibility when checking possible anagrams and word game combinations.
Letter Intelligence
A deeper look at the letter structure, patterns, and useful game signals inside key.
Unique Letters
3
Repeated Letters
0
Highest Value Letter
K
Letter Pattern
ABC
CV Pattern
CVC
Vowel Share
33%
Consonant Share
67%
Bigrams
KE, EY
Trigrams
KEY
Crossword Intelligence
Crossword-style clues, crossing help, and pattern notes for key.
Related Words
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kaal
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kaama
This word is included in the UnscrambleHQ word-game dictionary. A verified definition is not currently available.
kaamas
This word is included in the UnscrambleHQ word-game dictionary. A verified definition is not currently available.
kaas
This word is included in the UnscrambleHQ word-game dictionary. A verified definition is not currently available.
kab
This word is included in the UnscrambleHQ word-game dictionary. A verified definition is not currently available.
kabab
This word is included in the UnscrambleHQ word-game dictionary. A verified definition is not currently available.
kababbed
This word is included in the UnscrambleHQ word-game dictionary. A verified definition is not currently available.
kababbing
This word is included in the UnscrambleHQ word-game dictionary. A verified definition is not currently available.
Word Usage Insights
Practical observations about how this word performs in different word games and puzzle situations.
Word Intelligence Links
Explore word lists connected to KEY by length, score, vowels, consonants, starting letters, ending letters, and word game tools.
Word Family
Explore words that share a similar beginning or root pattern with key.
Related Word Tools
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